Miwa Shrine, Shinto shrine in Japan
Miwa Shrine is a small Shinto shrine in Gifu with wooden buildings set behind a red torii gate. The site features a simple main hall, stone lanterns, carved decorative tiles on the roof, and a small pond where carp swim, all surrounded by cedar trees.
The shrine was founded many years ago to honor the spirits believed to protect the area. In February 1946, it lost its official status as a Gō-sha due to a government directive, but it remains a meaningful place for the community.
The shrine honors the deity Ōmononushi and serves as a place where local people practice their spiritual traditions. Visitors witness everyday rituals like rinsing hands at water basins, making offerings, and hanging prayer tags that express hopes for health and safety.
The grounds are about a five-minute walk from the nearest bus stop and open during daylight hours. The shrine may close occasionally for repairs, so checking ahead helps ensure all areas are accessible during your visit.
The grounds sometimes host local arts traditions such as Chigoyama Performing Arts, an intangible cultural property featuring traditional performances passed down through generations. This connection to local arts gives the place cultural importance beyond its religious role.
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